Meet Trafalgar Castle School's admission team at the Private School Expo: Toronto (Oct 04). RSVP NOW
The big picture on Trafalgar Castle School
We summarized the school ourselves
It really is a castle, and the interiors are as striking as the exterior: turrets, arches, wood and stone. The school is also genuinely old, having been founded in 1874, though the building pre-dates the school. Yet, as ever, appearances can be deceiving, or at least can risk being made too much of. Trafalgar administration has, throughout its long history, consistently revised the curriculum and programs with an intention of providing, in a very literal sense, the best the world has to offer. That includes the adoption of the Singapore math and science curricula; Mandarin instruction; and writing instruction based on the program developed at the University of Chicago. A dedication to real-world learning has been built into the curriculum formally through the Beyond the Classroom initiative, which makes use of local resources and expertise, guided by the students' personal curiosities. Trafalgar offers an up-to-date, creative, and intentional program for girls preparing for university.
We questioned the school adminstration
1. Who are you, as a school?
"Trafalgar Castle School is an independent day and boarding school for girls in grades 4 through 12, where girls thrive in a diverse, close-knit community, empowered by future-ready learning and the confidence to boldly lead. Located in Whitby, Ontario, Trafalgar Castle School is small by design, ensuring that every student is personally known and supported through innovative programming, future-ready competencies and a welcoming community, all of which prepare them for the real world and a world yet to be imagined."
Founded in 1874
Diverse Co-Curricular
Strong Leadership Programme
Pool, Fitness Room and Gymnasium
All-School Camping Retreat
Advanced Placement (AP)
Award-Winning Robotics Team
Member of CIS eLearning Consortium
Integrative Thinking Programme
Health and Wellness Centre
2. What do you do differently and uniquely well?
"While we demonstrate dedication to academics, cultivating emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive interpersonal skills are at the forefront of our efforts. Social...(more)
"While we demonstrate dedication to academics, cultivating emotional intelligence, resilience, and positive interpersonal skills are at the forefront of our efforts. Social Emotional Learning is something that sets Trafalgar Castle apart, and creates a supportive and empowering school community as students mature into adulthood. Students are given a safe space to use their voice and build their confidence."
3. What tradeoffs has your school made to serve families in this way?
Information not yet available.
4. What key junctures in your school's history have most shaped its present?
Information not yet available.
5. What type of student is a good fit for your school?
Information not yet available.
6. Under what conditions would you advise a family against choosing your school?
Information not yet available.
7. To your knowledge, why do families choose your school over others?
"Trafalgar Castle’s circle of care is second to none. We have advisors, coaches, faculty and staff that are always present for the diverse group of learners in our building. We...(more)
"Trafalgar Castle’s circle of care is second to none. We have advisors, coaches, faculty and staff that are always present for the diverse group of learners in our building. We recognize that adolescence is hard, and are determined to be a soft place to land while engaging in future-ready curriculum that ensures students are prepared for post-secondary life."
8. How would you characterize your school's image amongst the public?
Information not yet available.
9. What aspect of your school is underappreciated?
"Experiential learning is at the forefront of our education model, and it is demonstrated through our Beyond the Castle week. BTC brings students to new places and allows them to...(more)
"Experiential learning is at the forefront of our education model, and it is demonstrated through our Beyond the Castle week. BTC brings students to new places and allows them to interact with different cities, communities, and people, thus expanding their knowledge on various subjects. This dedication to a student’s relationship to their community and real-life experience is one of the most under-appreciated aspects of Trafalgar that sets us aside from other schools."
10. What might families find surprising about your school?
"Firstly, we are a real castle! Here at Trafalgar, we embrace the traditions that have existed within the castle walls since it was built. Next, we are small by design - but our...(more)
"Firstly, we are a real castle! Here at Trafalgar, we embrace the traditions that have existed within the castle walls since it was built. Next, we are small by design - but our academic, co-curricular, and leadership programming is incredibly robust at the same time. Finally, our team puts forth incredible effort to ensure our students felt taken care of at all times. This includes snack stations, a well-rounded lunch, and shuttle for students to take to and from the Whitby GO Station."
11. What improvements or changes has your school made recently?
Information not yet available.
12. How will your school change in the next 5 years?